How Does an Unplanned Pregnancy Affect Maternal Stress and Depression From Pregnancy to 12 Months Postpartum? A Longitudinal Study.

Background: Research studies have shown an increased prevalence of mental health issues in women with unplanned pregnancies. However, many of these studies use cross-sectional methods. This particular study aimed to examine perceptions of stress and depression in women with unplanned pregnancies compared with those with planned pregnancies. The study tracked these perceptions, from the early stages of pregnancy to 12 months postpartum. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, pregnant women attending health centers completed a baseline questionnaire around the fifth month of pregnancy. This survey gathered demographic information and inquired about pregnancy planning. Perceived stress and depression were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS4) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) 4 times up to 12 months postpartum. The relationship between pregnancy planning and PSS4 and PHQ2 scores was analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results: A total of 302 women, with a mean age of 29.31 years and a standard deviation of 6, participated in the study. The findings revealed that women with unplanned pregnancies exhibited significantly higher levels of stress and depression throughout both the prenatal and postpartum periods, even after controlling for confounding variables. Additionally, the unplanned pregnancy group reported lower educational attainment, higher parity, older age, and less support from their marital and family networks. Conclusion: An unplanned pregnancy can significantly impact a mother's mental health, potentially lasting for months after giving birth. Women going through an unplanned pregnancy can greatly benefit from emotional support from their partners and family.